Police said they followed money trails linking property ventures and crimes.

Those arrested are in custody at a central London police station.

Det Chief Supt Tom Manson claimed: "The links between this gang and serious and violent crime are well documented as is their strong influence across London, and, we believe, connections to criminals across Britain and Europe.

"We believe they are responsible for a multi-million pound criminal business; laundering the profits from crime and using this money to commit other money-spinning offences."

Some of those arrested are believed to be behind the finance arm of the gang, involving working as accountants, mortgage brokers and property developers, police added.